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Installing Mahara using Softaculous

Mahara is an open‑source ePortfolio and social networking system. It allows users to create digital portfolios, collaborate, and share learning resources. With Softaculous, you can install Mahara quickly and easily through cPanel.

Why Use Mahara?

Section titled “Why Use Mahara?”
  • Designed for education and training institutions.
  • Provides portfolio creation, blogs, resumes, and file sharing.
  • Supports groups, forums, and collaborative learning.
  • Quick one‑click installation via Softaculous.

Steps to Install Mahara

Section titled “Steps to Install Mahara”

  1. Log in to cPanel.

    • Navigate to the Softaculous Apps Installer section.

  2. Search for Mahara.

    • In the Softaculous dashboard, type Mahara in the search box.
    • Or browse under Portals/CMS → Mahara.

  3. Click Install.

    • The installation page will open.

  4. Choose Protocol.

    • Select https:// or https://www if your site has an SSL certificate.
    • Select http:// or http://www if SSL is not installed.

  5. Choose Domain.

    • Select the domain where Mahara will be installed.

  6. Set Directory.

    • Leave blank if you want Mahara installed at the root (e.g., example.com).
    • Enter a folder name (e.g., portfolio) if you want Mahara installed at example.com/portfolio.

  7. Configure Data Directory.

    • Enter the directory where Mahara will store application data.
    • This should be outside the public_html folder for security.

  8. Configure CRON Jobs.

    • Set the CRON job intervals or accept the default values.
    • CRON jobs are scheduled tasks that run automatically.

  9. Configure Site Settings.

    • Site Name → Enter the title of your site.
    • Admin Username → Choose a unique username.
    • Admin Password → Use a strong password (Softaculous provides a strength meter or can generate one).
    • Admin Email → Enter the administrator’s email address.
    • First & Last Name → Enter the administrator’s name.

  10. Database Settings.

    • Provide a database name or accept the default.
    • Configure table prefix if needed.

  11. Advanced Options (Optional).

    • Configure automated backups and rotation.
    • Enable email notifications for updates.
    • Choose auto‑upgrade options for Mahara.

  12. Install.

    • Review settings and click Install.
    • Wait for confirmation. Softaculous will display the Mahara login URL (e.g., example.com/admin).